A new generation of playwrights gets an Off-Broadway forum for its work May 11-18, when Columbia University presents readings of thesis plays by students of the graduate playwriting program.

Freespeak: A Festival of Playreadings has attracted a clutch of stars to help give voice to the new works, playing at he DR2 Theatre on 15th Street near Union Square.

Under the guidance of playwright Eduardo Machado, the program will present six thesis plays by the current graduating class. All readings are at 3 PM and are free and open to the public. DR2 is at 103 E. 15th Street.

The plays are:

The Grille Room by Sam Forman, directed by Thomas Kail. "A Jewish family battles anti-Semitism at a Massachusetts Country Club in 1957," with Swoosie Kurtz, Jeremy Shamos, Mitchel Federon (The Boy from Oz), Dan Lauria, Baron Vaughn (May 11).

Eggs & Apples by Karen Smith Vastola, directed by Trip Cullman. "When a woman conceives an extraordinary and unusual child in a moment of empty carnal coupling, she faces a world of intolerance. How far will she go to protect her own flesh and blood?," with Dan Moran, Cecil McKinnon, Tom Palumbo, Billy Wheelan, David Manis. (May 12).

Baby Rattle by David Koteles, directed by Trip Cullman. "Will baby make five when a gay couple and their lesbian friends discover the ins and outs of pregnancy?," with Amir Arison, Nathan Blew. (May 14).

Airport Lounges by Hikaru Freeman, directed by Trip Cullman. "A successful businesswoman and her suicidal son take a trip around the world accompanied by an enigmatic doctor, only to be confronted with what they ran away from," with Maulik Pancholy, LeLand Gantt. (May 17)

Fire Baby by Malachy Walsh, directed by Trip Cullman. "First, Callaghan loses his TV Guide. Then his wife, Aideen, says she wants to go horse riding at midnight. To make matters worse, Michael, their only son, comes home and breaks into old Bing Crosby songs while threatening to kill them all. Ah, yes, it must be Christmas time again," with Estelle Parsons. (May 18) For reservations call (212) 854-3408.